Sachin Tendulkar’s company while batting is great education, says Virender Sehwag

Virender Sehwag (left) said he was lucky to have shared some good partnerships with Sachin Tendulkar © Getty Images

Nov 6, 2013

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India’s swashbuckling batsman Virender Sehwag has paid rich tributes to his idol Sachin Tendulkar and said that batting in the latter’s company was great education.

“He bats so clean and makes the bowling look ordinary. Believe me, in his presence, the partner can never feel any pressure because he takes it upon himself,” Sehwag said, as reported by The Hindu.

Sehwag also recalled his Test debut, talking about how Tendulkar made him feel comfortable.

“My first Test in 2001 was baptism by fire, but his presence ensured I was not too anxious. The score was 68 for four when I walked in. He met me half way and just kept pushing me, saying encouraging words.”

“I was so relieved. The nervousness vanished because of him. I had butterflies in my stomach but felt normal after facing the first few deliveries. We had a 220-run partnership and he made me feel absolutely comfortable. That was the kind of influence he had on his partners. It was as if he had a divine quality to absorb your anxiety,” he added.

Talking about the comfort level he shared with Tendulkar, he said, ” I am lucky to have had some grand partnerships with Sachin. I am also privileged that he has given me the liberty to crack jokes when we bat. He leaves his grand aura behind when he bats with you. He makes you feel important and stays normal himself. It is an amazing quality, to stay normal.”

When asked about his favourite knock of Tendulkar’s, Sehwag said, “If I have to pick one innings I would go for the double century (241 not out) against Australia at Sydney in 2004. It was a remarkable display of discipline. He was not getting runs and decided not to play the cover drive at all. If only I could play such an innings.”

On Tendulkar’s retirement, Sehwag said he couldn’t believe it was actually happening.

“I can’t believe he will be retiring soon. At some point everyone has to quit, but I am glad it is his decision. I will remember and revere him for helping me without making it obvious, like speaking to the selectors and the captain when I was to be dropped from the team. I am grateful he considered me a friend but I could never call him Sachin. He was always Paaji. I will always remember him as a great role model.”

Sachin Tendulkar Retirement